In the second round of the playoffs, there are usually a few games in each division that serve as a preview to the rest of the excitement we'll see as we approach the state championships. This week's matchup between the Meadowbrook Colts and the Ridgewood Generals looks to be one of those games as the Generals comes into the game as 3-point favorites in what essentially amounts to a toss-up. The playoffs are the best time of the year but also come with a great deal of drama as many powerhouses will even see their seasons cut short. Each week, it's do or die and, after this week is complete, half of the current playoff teams will be eliminated. The Colts rank 24th in the division while the Generals rank 15th. The teams did not appear on each other's schedules last season, which presents a degree of unpredictability. Stylistically and schematically, past matchups are often used as a guiding tool. This week, however, each team will likely take time to adjust to an unfamiliar opponent, which should make for some added excitement.

Meadowbrook comes into the game on a 6-game winning streak. After last week's 62-13 win against the Oak Hill Oaks, they are 8-3 and look to continue the positive momentum. The Colts have boasted one of Division 5's best offenses all season, averaging 37.5 points per game, which ranks 11th. In their last 5 games, they've been even better, scoring 48.8 points per game. Their defense gives up an average of 19.5 points per game, which ranks 28th in their division - in their last 2 games, they've improved, giving up an average of 10 points.

Ridgewood is no stranger to winning recently as they come off of a 4-game winning streak, including last week's 41-23 win against the Amanda-Clearcreek Aces. That brings their record to 10-1 as they look to add another notch to the win column. Scoring an average of 34.5 points per game on offense, the Generals rank 21st in Division 5. They've been even more dominant in recent weeks, scoring an average of 44.5 over their last 2 games. While recent games have affected averages negatively, their defense is one of the best as well. They rank 18th in their division, giving up an average of 16.5 points per game.